Sacrificial Animal Prices Drop After Influx Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha

Karachi’s sacrificial animal markets have seen a significant drop in prices following the arrival of a large number of animals. Earlier, it was feared that due to a countrywide shortage this year, Karachi might also experience a scarcity of animals, leading to inflated prices. “Till three weeks ago, the average price of a two-year-old calf was Rs 65-70 thousand per maund, which has now come down to Rs 55-60 thousand.”

According to sources, livestock markets like Cattle Colony Mandi and Malir Mandi remained nearly empty after Ramadan, sparking concerns among traders and buyers alike. Rumors of limited supply caused a spike in prices. However, the recent arrival of animals has helped stabilize the market.

Currently, “more than 150,000 animals have arrived at Karachi’s largest cattle market, located on the Northern Bypass, while about 50,000 have been sold.” This influx has helped ease earlier fears and brought prices down to more manageable levels.

Sources reveal that one major factor in the price drop is the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. “Traders are afraid that their animals may fall ill and not be sold, so they are selling animals at low and reasonable prices.” Additionally, the scorching heat is prompting traders from outside Karachi to sell quickly and leave the city, which is also driving prices down.

“At present, the price of big animals has fallen from an average of 65-70 thousand rupees per maund to 55-60 thousand rupees per maund, and with this, purchasing has also increased.”

However, market insiders warn that prices may rise again just before Eid if the supply drops. “There is no possibility of further reduction in prices, but there is a possibility of an increase once again in the last two days before Eid.”